Updated: 10/18/23
Are you looking to increase your energy levels, improve your endurance, and sharpen your mental clarity? Many might turn straight to the coffee pot for an afternoon pick-me-up or a pre-workout cup of joe but there is another natural supplement from which some athletes and gym enthusiasts swear: DL-Malic acid. This simple supplement packs a powerful punch when it comes to naturally boosting physical and mental performance and could be the key to unlocking enhanced results in sports training and everyday activities. In this post, we’ll explore how DL-Malic acid works on both a physiological level as well as take an honest look at what side effects (if any) individuals should expect.
What is DL-Malic Acid?
DL-Malic acid is a popular dietary supplement that has been gaining popularity recently. It has a good reputation as an active ingredient in many food products. This substance is well-known for its benefits for athletes and fitness enthusiasts. Moreover, it can also improve your overall health and well-being. So, let us delve deeper and see what this compound is all about.
DL-Malic acid is one of the two forms of malic acid. It is a crystalline form of malic acid that is used in various industries, including biotechnology, food, and pharmaceuticals. This compound is considered as a type of alpha-hydroxy acid, which means it contains a carboxylic acid group and an OH group attached to the same carbon atom.
DL-Malic acid is an essential compound that the human body can produce naturally. It has a pivotal role in the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It can improve your body’s energy levels and reduce fatigue. DL-Malic Acid can also stimulate the glucose uptake by the muscle tissues to provide energy during exercise.
What Does Malic Acid Do for the Body?
Malic acid is an essential organic acid found naturally in many fruits and vegetables, especially apples. It is often used as a natural flavor enhancer and can also be found as a supplement in capsule or powder form. One of the primary functions of malic acid is its role in the Krebs cycle, or the citric acid cycle, which is responsible for energy production in our body. Malic acid helps our body produce Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP), which is the energy currency of our cells. This means that malic acid plays a crucial role in our body’s energy production and can help improve our physical performance.
In addition to its role in energy production, malic acid also has many other health benefits. It has been found to have antioxidant properties, which help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. This can lead to reduced inflammation and decreased risk of chronic diseases. Additionally, malic acid has been shown to aid in digestion by promoting bile production in the liver, which can help break down fats and promote bowel regularity.
DL-Malic Acid vs Malic Acid
First, let’s talk about what malic acid is. Malic acid is a naturally occurring organic acid found in many fruits, including apples. It is also an ingredient in many processed foods, chewing gums, and drinks. Most of the malic acid you will encounter in your diet is the L-malic acid form.
DL-malic acid, on the other hand, is a racemic mixture, which means it contains two forms of malic acid – L-malic acid and D-malic acid in equal amounts. Because DL-malic acid is synthesized artificially, it is not found naturally in fruits or other foods.
So, why is there a need for DL-malic acid when L-malic acid is readily available in fruits? The answer lies in its unique chemical properties. DL-malic acid is widely used in the food industry as a flavor enhancer, acidity regulator, and preservative. It gives a sour taste that is similar to that of natural fruit acid. It also helps to mask unpleasant aftertastes and odors in foods.
DL-Malic Acid Benefits
Aids Digestion
One of the benefits of malic acid is that it can aid in digestion. Malic acid helps stimulate the production of digestive bile which in turn can help improve digestion. When digestion improves, the body breaks down food more efficiently which can also help with nutrient absorption.
Boosts Energy
Malic acid is an essential nutrient that the cells in our body need to produce energy. It helps in the production of ATP, a molecule that powers the functioning of all the cells in our body. When the production of ATP is increased, our cells get more energy, leading to higher stamina levels. Those who feel fatigued after a workout or have low energy levels can benefit from malic acid supplements.
Reduces Muscle Pain and Soreness
Malic acid has anti-inflammatory properties that benefit muscle pain and soreness, making it a popular supplement among athletes. A study showed that those who took malic acid supplements experienced less pain and fewer muscle problems than those who did not. Malic acid is also useful for those with fibromyalgia, a chronic condition that causes muscle pain.
Protects Teeth
Malic acid is a natural tooth whitener, and it can help clear away surface stains that result from coffee, tea, or smoking. It also helps neutralize the bacteria that can cause bad breath, cavities and gum disease. Additionally, malic acid supports saliva production and maintains a healthy pH balance in your mouth, which is critical for healthy teeth and gums.
Improves Skin Health
Malic acid is known for its ability to exfoliate and smooth the skin. Many skincare products use malic acid as a key ingredient due to its natural ability to remove dead skin cells and improve skin texture. Malic acid, when applied topically, helps exfoliate and tighten the skin, giving it a radiant and youthful appearance. It can also help unclog pores and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Moreover, malic acid’s antioxidant properties help protect your skin from environmental stressors that can lead to premature aging.
Supports Oral Health
As an acid, malic acid can help increase the production of saliva, which can help protect teeth and gums by neutralizing harmful bacteria. Additionally, it is a belief that malic acid can help reduce staining on teeth by smoking and drinking coffee.
Manages Fibromyalgia Symptoms
Another health benefit of malic acid is its potential role in mitigating fibromyalgia symptoms. Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition with widespread muscle pain and tenderness. A study conducted on patients with fibromyalgia found that supplementation with malic acid and magnesium reduced pain and tenderness significantly. This suggests that malic acid may be beneficial in managing fibromyalgia symptoms.
Sports Performance
There are some proponents of malic acid being used to boost sports performance because it is thought that it can increase your energy, increase your exercise endurance and help fight muscle fatigue. When used to produce this type of benefit, it is sometimes combined with creatine supplements to help the body better absorb creatine.
Malic Acid with Magnesium
Malic acid with magnesium is a powerful combination of two essential nutrients that can provide numerous benefits for the body known as magnesium malate. From reducing muscle pain and fatigue to improving digestion and cardiovascular health, malic acid with magnesium should be a part of your daily supplement routine. Whether you are an athlete looking to enhance your performance or someone struggling with chronic pain and fatigue, malic acid with magnesium can help you achieve optimal health and well-being.
DL-Malic Acid Side Effects
Digestive Distress
One of the most common DL-Malic acid side effects is digestive distress. This includes symptoms such as bloating, gas, and diarrhea. These symptoms occur when you consume more than the recommended dosage of DL-Malic acid. In addition, if you have a sensitive stomach or have digestive issues, it’s best to avoid the supplement altogether.
Tooth Decay
Another side effect of DL-Malic acid is tooth decay. This substance can cause damage to the enamel of your teeth and make your teeth more susceptible to cavities and decay. This is because the acid erodes the enamel on your teeth and makes them more vulnerable to bacterial attack.
Skin Rash
In some cases, DL-Malic acid can also cause skin rashes. While this is rare, it can happen if you’re allergic to the substance or if you’re consuming it in excessive amounts. If you notice any skin changes after consuming supplements containing DL-Malic acid, it’s best to avoid them altogether and seek medical attention.
Dizziness
Some people have reported feeling dizzy or lightheaded after taking DL-Malic acid. This can be due to a drop in blood pressure or blood sugar levels. If you experience this side effect, it’s best to stop taking the supplement and consult with your doctor.
Headaches
DL-Malic Acid can also lead to headaches in some people. This can be due to changes in neurotransmitter levels or blood flow to the brain. If you experience headaches after taking the supplement, it’s best to talk to your doctor and see if they recommend any alternatives.
Allergic Reactions
Some people may experience allergic reactions to DL-Malic acid. This can manifest as hives, swelling, or difficulty breathing. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.
Low Blood Pressure
Another side effect of consuming excessive amounts of DL-Malic acid is that it can cause low blood pressure. This is because the supplement has the ability to dilate blood vessels and increase blood flow. While this may seem like a good thing, it can also cause your blood pressure to drop dangerously low.
Kidney Stones
Lastly, DL-Malic Acid can also lead to the formation of kidney stones. This is because it increases the level of calcium in the urine, leading to the development of stones in the kidneys. If you have a history of kidney stones, it’s best to avoid supplements containing DL-Malic acid altogether.
Can Malic Acid Cause Heartburn?
Research has shown that malic acid is actually quite safe for most people. Unlike some other kinds of acids that can cause more severe irritation, malic acid is relatively gentle. In fact, malic acid is a natural remedy for acid reflux and other digestive issues. Additionally, malic acid has shown to have antioxidant properties and can help support healthy muscle function.
While there is no definitive evidence that malic acid causes heartburn, it’s still possible that some people may experience some discomfort after eating foods that contain malic acid. This is because everyone’s digestive system is different, and some people may be more sensitive to certain foods than others. Malic acid is generally safe and is not a major trigger for heartburn.
Malic Acid for Gout
So how does malic acid work to prevent uric acid buildup? One theory is that it helps break down uric acid in the body, making it easier for the kidneys to excrete. Another possibility is that it inhibits xanthine oxidase, an enzyme that’s in uric acid synthesis. While more research is needed to fully understand the mechanism of action, there’s promising evidence that malic acid could be a valuable tool in managing gout symptoms.
If you’re interested in incorporating malic acid into your gout treatment plan, one easy way to do so is by drinking apple cider vinegar. This tangy liquid is from fermented apple juice and contains high levels of malic acid. Adding a tablespoon or two of apple cider vinegar to a glass of water and drinking it daily may help reduce uric acid levels and prevent gout attacks. It’s important to note, however, that apple cider vinegar can be very acidic and may cause stomach upset or damage to tooth enamel if consumed in excessive amounts. Always dilute it with plenty of water and talk to your doctor before making any major dietary changes.
What is Malic Acid in Food?
As mentioned earlier, malic acid is in various fruits and vegetables. Apples are the most significant source of malic acid, along with grapes, cherries, peaches, and pears. Tomatoes, however, have the highest concentration of malic acid among vegetables. Additionally, malic acid is also a food additive in various foods such as candies, chewing gum, and soft drinks.
Structures of DL-Malic Acid
DL-Malic acid is a compound that is naturally in fruits such as apples and grapes. When in harvest, they are malic acid, which means that the compound is of a high purity with no other contaminants. DL-Malic acid is creating when L-Malic acid and D-Malic acid are combining in a laboratory setting. It is in the food and beverage industry as an acidulant, and it is also in medical settings to treat various conditions.
Like most acids, DL-Malic acid has a molecular structure that consists of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen atoms. Specifically, it has two stereoisomers: L-Malic acid and D-Malic acid. The DL-Malic acid molecule consists of two mirror images, each with different configurations of the atoms. Hence, the L and D prefixes are to distinguish between the two types of isomers. L-Malic acid has a left-hand orientation, while D-Malic acid has a right-hand orientation.
Where to Buy Malic Acid
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Dosage
The recommended dosage of DL-malic acid usually at about 500 mg, taken two or three times per day. However, if taken in combination with magnesium, the recommended dose of malic acid is 280 mg per day.
Always consult your physician before adding malic acid into your regular daily intake and routine.
The Bottom Line
In conclusion, DL-Malic acid is a critical organic acid that plays a crucial role in many physiological processes in our body. Its benefits range from energy production, antioxidant properties, improved digestion, and immune system support. Additionally, it has shown potential in mitigating fibromyalgia symptoms. With the numerous health benefits, it is worth considering malic acid as a part of your supplement routine. As always, before starting any supplement, it is a recommendation to consult with a healthcare professional.
While DL-Malic acid can certainly provide many health benefits, it’s important to be aware of the potential side effects. If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above, talk to your doctor about whether or not you should continue taking the supplement. As with any new addition to your supplement regimen, it’s always best to start with a small dose and see how your body reacts before increasing the amount. By being mindful of the potential side effects, you can ensure that you’re making the best choices for your health.
Both L-Malic acid and DL-Malic acid are safe for human consumption and have many useful applications in the food industry. While L-Malic acid is the natural form in fruits, DL-malic acid is artificial and has unique properties that are for food applications. As with any food ingredient, it is essential to consume in moderation and pay attention to any potential adverse reactions.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease